In a recent Instagram post, the UWM4PariCoalition, a group focused on supporting Palestine, released a controversial statement declaring that “ANY organization or entity that supports Israel is not welcome at UWM.” 

This proclamation specifically targets groups like Hillel and the Jewish Federation, non-partisan organizations that provide a space for Jewish students to connect and engage with their culture.

The coalition’s press release further stated, “We will no longer normalize genocidal extremists walking on our campus,” referring to Jewish students and organizations. They emphasized, “Any organizations that have not separated themselves from Israel will be treated accordingly as extremist criminals,” concluding with a foreboding “stay tuned.” The aggressive rhetoric has raised concerns and left the Jewish community wondering about the potential implications for Jewish students on campus.

Caption: UW-Milwaukee posts threatening message on Instagram

After the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee condemned the statement, the coalition took to Instagram again to reinforce their stance. They asserted, “Groups that fail to distance themselves from this rogue regime will not be normalized or welcomed on our campus.”

The UWM4PariCoalition’s Instagram account has been active since April 30th this year, coinciding with mass protests on campus ahead of the commencement ceremonies. This situation has sparked significant tension and debate within the university community.